Wales international Tyler Morgan has joined the Scarlets after his departure from the Dragons, with the west Wales region confirming his capture.

Once likened to Brian O’Driscoll, the 24-year-old centre will help reinforce a midfield pool depleted by the exit of Hadleigh Parkes.

Morgan will link with the Scarlets when the current virus-enforced rugby shutdown is lifted in Wales.

It’s a significant signing for the Llanelli-based region.

Although Morgan is an outside centre, rather than a No. 12 like Parkes, he is fast and elusive and a far better player than his relatively modest total of five caps would suggest.

The Scarlets certainly feel they have made a useful acquisition, with head coach Glenn Delaney saying: “We are delighted to be bringing a player of Tyler’s quality on board at the Scarlets.

“He is an exciting talent and his potential has been there for all to see since he first burst onto the scene in Wales. He will add to the midfield options we already have at the club and we look forward to welcoming him into the group when we do get back together.”

Tyler Morgan was regarded as the jewel in the crown on the Wales U20s squad in 2015

Morgan could have an important role to play at the Scarlets when Jonathan Davies is away with Wales. With a fair wind behind him, he might even force his own way into Wayne Pivac’s plans.

Five years ago, Rob Howley described the Newport-born player as “a fantastic footballer with X factor”, while ex-Dragons coach Darren Edwards reckoned the then teenager had the potential to succeed Brian O’Driscoll as the top centre in the British Isles.

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Injuries have meant such predictions have yet to be realised, but Morgan is young enough to revive his Wales career.

The Dragons academy product is relishing the prospect of the new chapter that lies ahead. “I am looking forward to getting started,” he said.

“It is a fresh start for me.

“I know a lot of the Scarlets boys from age-grade rugby, playing with the likes of Steff Hughes, Eli (Ryan Elias) and Kieran Hardy and also when I was in the senior set-up learning alongside players like Rhys Patchell and Jon Davies.

“It is a new challenge, there are some great players at the Scarlets and I think the style of rugby the side play will suit my game.

“I have spoken to Scarlets backs coach Dai Flanagan who I know from when I was playing with Newport. He is a quality coach and I’m excited to be working with him again and the rest of the coaching team.

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“I’d also like to thank the Dragons for giving me the opportunity in professional rugby. I wish them all the success in the future.”